Osaka City, Osaka / 大阪城天守閣（大阪府大阪市）
Are you curious about traditional Japanese castles? If yes, then Osaka Castle would be a MUST visit.
Osaka Castle is a wonderful place to experience Japanese history and culture. The castle was built during the Sengoku period (1467-1568)1 and features powerful architecture and beautiful gardens. Once inside the castle, visitors can enjoy the history of Osaka Castle and its exhibits at the History Museum.
Particularly recommended is the view from the castle keep. From the top, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city of Osaka and the city centre. This is a very different, and quite atmospheric, modern view from a height that can be seen from Tsutenkaku Tower. Also, the contrast between the cherry blossoms and the castle creates a wonderful sight during the cherry blossom season.
Osaka Castle is also an attractive destination for foreign visitors. It is recommended for those interested in history and architecture, as well as for those who want to enjoy the beautiful nature and scenery. Rental bicycles and boats are available on the grounds, and visitors can also explore at their leisure.
When visiting Osaka, be sure to visit Osaka Castle and experience the history and beauty of Japan.
Why did I visit there?
It is so famous that there is no Japanese person who has not heard of this place. Even if you are not so interested in Japanese history or castles. I will explain, based on my own knowledge, why this castle is common knowledge to the Japanese in the first place.
The period mentioned earlier, around the 15th-16th century, when warlords from different parts of the country were fighting and trying to expand their respective territories, is known as the Sengoku period. Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a famous shogun, was the first to unify Japan throughout the war, along with Oda Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu. And this man, Hideyoshi, ordered the construction of Osaka Castle, which is introduced in this post.
So, I decided to visit there to broaden my horizons further.
Osaka Castle Park
If you want to see inside the castle, you will first have to pass through the lush park around it. It should never be underestimated, even if it is not the main body of the castle. For example, the inner moats found around this castle help to make it harder to attack targets.
When I visited, there was a couple from overseas taking wedding photos on the bridge. I didn’t know that this place is famous for marriage ceremonies. The following link shows the wedding service to be taken beautiful photos.
Osaka Castle Park offers a variety of activities and features that attract visitors. The park provides opportunities to rent bicycles and boats, allowing visitors to explore the vast grounds and immerse themselves in nature. Additionally, the park boasts beautiful gardens that showcase the changing seasons, with cherry blossoms creating a spectacular display during springtime.
↓A map of this park provided by the official website below↓
Main Tower
The main tower of Osaka Castle possesses a commanding presence, with its towering height and impressive solidity. It faithfully recreates the appearance of the original tower built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, signifying its historical significance. The sheer size and weight of the tower create a lasting impression, evoking a sense of reverence for the history and heritage it represents.
Inside the tower, visitors can explore the historical museum and exhibition rooms, where they can immerse themselves in the history and culture of Osaka Castle. The museum showcases various artefacts, documents, and displays that provide insights into the life and achievements of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the Sengoku period. Visitors can learn about the castle’s significance within Japanese history and its role as a strategic stronghold.
Additionally, ascending to the top of the tower rewards visitors with panoramic views of Osaka’s cityscape and the surrounding area. From this vantage point, one can marvel at the urban bustle below and appreciate the landscape’s natural beauty, creating a memorable and captivating experience.
How do I get to Osaka Castle?
- Osaka Station ~ Osaka Castle Park (Train/Bus) takes 30 min
- Habikino.lg.jp. 2024, 戦国時代とは|羽曳野市, viewed 15 Apr.2024, https://www.city.habikino.lg.jp/soshiki/shougaigakushu/bunka-sekai/bunkazai/bunkazai/iseki_shokai/muromachi_sengoku/2431.html ↩︎
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